Standard Goods / Good People

May 16, 2012

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That’s Garrett in the first picture above. He owns ST&NDARD GOODS in LA (also pictured above). He’s the guy who contacted me about having a photography show at his shop, and I owe him a lot for his support of my work.

Aside from meeting Garrett and his fiancée Christine in NYC one day last December, we had not spent time together (though we had been in contact through blogging). One of the best parts of my trip to LA in April was hanging out with them more. Garrett was an incredible tour guide, a gracious host, and a huge force behind the show and the opening reception. He’s also a really great guy – those of you who have met Garrett will know exactly what I mean. He’s funny and refreshingly down-to-earth and relaxed.

Garrett also has excellent taste. I learned a lot from him while I was visiting – I’ve been listening to music he recommended, reading books he showed me, and looking at things differently after my trip to LA. It’s rare that you meet someone so thoughtful and enthusiastic these days, I think. Garrett’s shop is clearly a representation of what he loves and the things he wants to share with the world. It has a point of view and it’s discerning – he doesn’t sell a book or a piece of clothing just because every other menswear shop sells it. And when I asked Garrett to recommend people & places to photograph in LA, he put me in touch with 2 people – each of them friendly individuals doing cool things and living & working in beautiful, thoughtful spaces. Not surprising, really.

This may all seem overly effusive to some, but I owe Garrett a lot – he gave me an opportunity to have my first exhibition, he’s a big supporter of my work, and he’s put me in touch with some incredibly inspiring people. Most of all, I’m happy that he’s become a good friend.

Hands down the best article/letter I’ve received. The idea of opening this store was to hopefully connect & work with others. To be around people that were doing what they love and not looking back. Brian and his work is a perfect representation of the store. It’s not high brow but amazing photography with amazing storytelling in REAL life.
Thanks for the kind words everybody. And Kate, we have a very comfortable couch if you need to crash! Ha.